August 14

Introduction

Judges 8:1–28: Gideon finishes destroying the Midianite army, and the Israelites want Gideon to be their ruler. The concluding verses in today’s reading take a puzzling twist, with Gideon making an idol out of the gold earrings taken from the Midianites, thus causing the Israelites to abandon God and worship the idol.

Today’s Key Verse: Judges 8:23b

[Gideon said]: “The LORD will be your ruler.”

Reflect

Why were the people of Ephraim upset with Gideon (verse 1)? What did he say to dispel their anger (verses 2–3)? What do you think his words indicated about his leadership style? Reread verses 4–9. Why did the leaders of Sukkoth and Penuel refuse to help Gideon’s army? What did Gideon say he would do? According to verse 27, the idol “was a trap for Gideon and his family” and caused all the Israelites to abandon God and worship the idol. What successes or comforts today might entrap or distract people from worshiping God?

Pray

Lord God, you alone are my God and you reign in my heart. Keep me humble and mindful that I can do nothing on my own. Help me to keep depending on you. I worship you alone and praise your holy name. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Judges 13:1–25: Samson is born.